For most crochet projects you will need to attach new yarn at some point. Whether it’s because you’ve run out of one color or you’re changing colors to create a pattern, it’s an important skill to master. There are two main ways to attach new yarn: the invisible join and the regular join. The invisible join is a bit more difficult, but it creates a more seamless look. The regular join is easier to do, but it will be more visible.
To do the invisible join, you’ll need to insert your hook into the last loop of the old yarn and pull up a loop of the new yarn. Then, insert your hook into the next loop of the old yarn and pull the new yarn through both loops. Repeat this process until you’ve used up all of the old yarn. To do the regular join, you’ll need to make a slip knot with the new yarn and insert your hook into the next stitch on the row. Pull the new yarn up through the stitch and then pull the old yarn through the loop on your hook. Repeat this process until you’ve used up all of the old yarn.
Preparing Your Materials
Choosing the Right Yarn
Selecting the appropriate yarn is crucial for a successful crochet project. Consider the desired look, feel, and durability of the finished product. Here’s a table to guide your choice:
| Material | Characteristics | Use |
| ———– | ———– | ———– |
| Acrylic | Soft, durable, machine washable | Garments, blankets |
| Cotton | Natural, breathable, absorbent | Clothing, table linens |
| Wool | Warm, moisture-wicking, insulating | Winter accessories, sweaters |
| Silk | Luxurious, drapes well, delicate | Evening wear, scarves |
Gathering the Necessary Tools
In addition to yarn, you’ll need a few basic tools:
– Crochet hook: Choose a size appropriate for the yarn and project
– Scissors: Sharp scissors to cut yarn
– Yarn needle: To weave in loose ends
– Measuring tape: To determine yarn length and gauge
Calculating Yarn Quantity
Estimate the amount of yarn required for your project. Measure the desired length of the finished piece, allowing extra for finishing. Refer to the yarn label for recommended hook size and yardage per unit.
Understanding the Terminology
2. Joining New Yarn
When you run out of yarn, you’ll need to attach a new skein. To do this, you’ll need to learn the following techniques:
- Magic Knot: This is a simple and secure way to join yarn strands. It creates a small, almost invisible knot.
- Russian Join: This method is similar to the magic knot, but it creates a slightly larger knot. It’s ideal for joining variegated yarns.
- Weaving In: This technique involves weaving the new yarn end through the existing stitches to secure it. It’s a versatile method that can be used with any type of yarn.
- Slip Knot: This is a quick and easy way to attach a new yarn strand, but it can be less secure than the other methods.
Choosing the Right Join Method
The best join method depends on the type of yarn you’re using and the desired effect. Here’s a quick reference:
| Yarn Type | Recommended Join Method |
|---|---|
| Solid-colored yarn | Magic Knot or Russian Join |
| Variegated yarn | Russian Join |
| Textured yarn | Weaving In |
| Delicate yarn | Slip Knot |
| Joining Stitch | Description | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Slip Knot | Creates a secure loop without adding any height | Starting a new row or adding yarn mid-row |
| Whip Stitch | Imperceptible join that creates a seamless transition | Joining motifs or granny squares |
| Invisible Join | Concealed join that hides the new yarn | Joining rounds or adding contrast colors |
Joining with Decorative Stitches
Add a touch of flair to your crochet projects by joining new yarn with decorative stitches. Here’s how:
Slip Knot Join
Create a slip knot on the new yarn. Insert the hook through the last stitch of the old yarn, yarn over, and pull through the loop. Slide the slip knot onto the hook.
Chain Join
Chain a few stitches with the new yarn. Insert the hook through the last stitch of the old yarn, yarn over, and pull through the loop. Hook the chain, yarn over, and pull through both loops.
Split Stitch Join
Insert the hook into the last stitch of the old yarn, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Insert the hook into the same stitch again, but from the back, and yarn over. Pull through both loops on the hook.
Invisible Join
Work the last stitch of the old yarn and insert the hook into the next stitch. Pull up a loop with the old yarn, then yarn over with the new yarn and pull through both loops. Repeat with the new yarn.
Yarn Over Join
Insert the hook through the last stitch of the old yarn, yarn over, and pull up a loop. Yarn over again with the new yarn and pull through all loops on the hook.
Slip Stitch Join
Insert the hook through the last stitch of the old yarn, yarn over with the new yarn, and pull through the loop. Insert the hook through the stitch on the hook again, yarn over, and pull through both loops.
| Join Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Slip Knot Join | Creates a secure knot that can be easily hidden |
| Chain Join | Provides a visible line between yarn colors |
| Split Stitch Join | Works well for joining bulky yarns or when you want a more decorative join |
| Invisible Join | Creates a virtually invisible join, making it ideal for variegated yarns |
| Yarn Over Join | Provides a quick and easy join that is not as visible as a chain join |
| Slip Stitch Join | Creates a secure and tight join that is not easily noticeable |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Issue: Yarn Knots Are Too Loose or Too Tight
If your yarn knots are too loose, they may come undone while you’re crocheting. To fix this, try pulling the yarn tails tighter when you tie the knot. If your yarn knots are too tight, they may be difficult to undo. To fix this, try pulling the yarn tails less tightly when you tie the knot. You can also try using a smaller crochet hook to make the knots less tight.
Issue: Yarn Tails Are Too Long or Too Short
If your yarn tails are too long, they may get in the way while you’re crocheting. To fix this, trim the yarn tails to about 2 inches (5 cm) long. if your yarn tails are too short, they may not be long enough to tie a secure knot. To fix this, leave the yarn tails about 4 inches (10 cm) long.
Issue: Yarn is Splitting or Fuzzing
If your yarn is splitting or fuzzing, it may be a sign that the yarn is too tightly twisted or that the yarn is made from a low-quality fiber. To prevent yarn splitting or fuzzing, try using a yarn that is made from a high-quality fiber and that is not too tightly twisted. You can also try using a smaller crochet hook to reduce the amount of tension on the yarn.
Issue: Yarn is Snagging or Tangling
If your yarn is snagging or tangling, it may be a sign that the yarn is too rough or that the yarn is not properly wound. To prevent yarn snagging or tangling, try using a yarn that is smooth and that is properly wound. You can also try using a yarn ball winder to ensure that the yarn is wound evenly.
Issue: Yarn is Breaking
If your yarn is breaking, it may be a sign that the yarn is too weak or that the yarn is being crocheted too tightly. To prevent yarn breakage, try using a yarn that is strong and that is not being crocheted too tightly. You can also try using a smaller crochet hook to reduce the amount of tension on the yarn.
Issue: Yarn Colors Are Bleeding
If your yarn colors are bleeding, it may be a sign that the yarn is not colorfast. To prevent yarn colors from bleeding, try using a yarn that is colorfast. You can also try washing the yarn in cold water before using it.
Issue: Yarn is Slippery
If your yarn is slippery, it may be difficult to control while you’re crocheting. To prevent yarn slipping, try using a yarn that is not slippery. You can also try using a crochet hook with a rough surface to help grip the yarn.
Issue: Yarn is Too Stiff or Too Soft
If your yarn is too stiff or too soft, it may be difficult to crochet with. To prevent yarn from being too stiff or too soft, try using a yarn that is the right stiffness for the project you’re working on. You can also try using a different crochet hook size to adjust the tension on the yarn.
Enhancing Your Joining Techniques
Weaving In Your Ends
This classic method involves passing the yarn through adjacent stitches or rows using a tapestry needle or yarn needle. The woven ends become almost invisible, resulting in a seamless look.
Joining with a Slip Knot
Create a slip knot with the new yarn and pass it through the last stitch of the previous yarn. Pull the ends to secure the knot and continue crocheting.
Joining with a Single Crochet Stitch
Insert the hook into the last stitch of the previous yarn and pull up a loop with the new yarn. Draw the new yarn through both loops on the hook to complete the single crochet stitch.
Joining with a Double Crochet Stitch
As with the single crochet, insert the hook into the last stitch of the previous yarn. Wrap the new yarn around the hook twice and draw it through the first two loops on the hook. Wrap the yarn again and draw it through the remaining two loops to complete the double crochet stitch.
Joining with a Half Double Crochet Stitch
Follow the steps for the double crochet stitch, but only wrap the yarn around the hook once during each step.
Joining with a Triple Crochet Stitch
Repeat the double crochet stitch process but wrap the yarn around the hook three times instead of twice.
Magically Invisible Join
This technique creates an almost invisible seam by working multiple stitches into a single gap. To do this, insert the hook into the space between the last two stitches of the previous row, pull up a loop with the new yarn, and continue crocheting as usual.
Joining with a Continuous Round
This method is ideal for joining yarn when working in rounds. Simply hold the new yarn against the last stitch of the previous round and continue crocheting into the next stitch.
Joining Two Pieces Together
To join two separate pieces, align the edges and use any of the joining methods mentioned above to connect the stitches.
Table of Hand-Stitching Techniques:
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Slip Knot Join | Creates a small knot that is concealed within the stitches. |
| Single Crochet Join | A secure and invisible join that creates a smooth transition between yarns. |
| Invisible Join | A seamless join that is perfect for joining yarns of different colors or textures. |
Tips for Seamless Joining
1. Cut the Old Yarn at an Angle
Angle-cutting the old yarn creates a tapered end that helps seamlessly integrate the new yarn. Aim for a diagonal cut of about 45 degrees.
2. Leave a Tail of Yarn
Leave a tail of about 4-6 inches of the old yarn to secure the new yarn. This tail will be used to tie the new yarn in place.
3. Insert the New Yarn through the Last Loop
Use the hook to draw the new yarn through the last loop on the hook. This loop will anchor the new yarn securely.
4. Tie the Tails Together
Thread the tail of the old yarn through the loop created by the new yarn. Then, pull both ends to tighten the knot.
5. Weave in the Ends
Once the knot is secure, use a yarn needle or hook to weave the ends of the yarn into the fabric. This will conceal any loose ends.
6. Use a Slip Knot
For a cleaner join, use a slip knot to attach the new yarn. Make a slip knot on the new yarn and insert it through the last loop on the hook.
7. Work in a Continuous Round
If working in a continuous round, join the new yarn at the beginning of a new round. This will minimize any visible seam.
8. Use a Different Color or Texture
For a more intentional effect, use a different color or texture of yarn for the join. This can create a decorative accent or transition in the fabric.
9. Experiment with Joining Methods
Explore different joining methods, such as the mattress stitch or invisible join, to find the one that works best for your project.
10. Practice Makes Perfect!
The key to seamless yarn joins is practice. The more you experiment with different methods, the more proficient you’ll become. So don’t be afraid to try out various techniques and find what works best for you.
How to Attach New Yarn in Crochet
When crocheting, it’s inevitable that you’ll eventually run out of yarn. When this happens, don’t panic! Simply attach a new skein of yarn and continue crocheting. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Weave in the end of the old yarn: Using a yarn needle, weave the end of the old yarn through the last few stitches of your work. This will prevent it from unraveling.
- Find a new starting point: Decide where you want to attach the new yarn. This could be at the beginning of a row, in the middle of a stitch, or anywhere else that makes sense for your pattern.
- Insert the new yarn: Bring the new yarn up through the stitch where you want to attach it. Hold the two ends of yarn together.
- Tie a slip knot: Make a slip knot with the two ends of yarn and tighten it around the hook. This will create a secure connection between the old and new yarn.
- Continue crocheting: Now you can continue crocheting as usual, using the new yarn.
People Also Ask
How do I avoid knots when attaching new yarn?
To avoid knots when attaching new yarn, use a slip knot instead of a regular knot. A slip knot can be easily tightened or loosened, so it won’t leave a noticeable bump in your work.
Can I attach new yarn anywhere in the row?
Yes, you can attach new yarn anywhere in the row. However, it’s best to attach it at a point that makes sense for your pattern. For example, if you’re working in rows, it’s easiest to attach new yarn at the beginning or end of a row.
What if I run out of yarn in the middle of a stitch?
If you run out of yarn in the middle of a stitch, simply drop the loop off the hook and reattach the yarn as usual. Then, pick up the loop again and continue crocheting.
